Real Kashmir FC demonstrated resilience as they fought back from a goal down to secure a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Inter Kashi in a crucial I-League encounter at the Kalyani Municipal Stadium. The match, held on Saturday, November 24, 2024, showcased an intense battle between two determined sides vying for crucial points in the league standings.
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Late Drama Unfolds: Kisekka’s Heroics Earn Real Kashmir a Point
Henry Kisekka emerged as the hero for Real Kashmir FC, scoring a dramatic last-gasp equalizer to cancel out Mario Barco’s earlier strike for Inter Kashi. Kisekka’s header, off a well-delivered corner from Ifham Tariq Mir, sealed a crucial point for his side in the dying moments of the match. The draw, however, left both teams without significant gains in their quest to climb up the I-League standings.
Tactical Battle: Defenses Hold Firm
The encounter between Real Kashmir and Inter Kashi was marked by a tactical battle characterized by tight defensive formations from both sides. Both teams prioritized defensive solidity, limiting space for attacking opportunities and focusing on neutralizing each other’s threats. The defensive resilience displayed by both teams contributed to a cagey affair, with clear-cut chances at a premium in the early stages of the match.
Inter Kashi’s Initiative: Lalrindika’s Creative Spark
Inter Kashi, led by the creative prowess of Edmund Lalrindika, sought to break the deadlock by maneuvering through Real Kashmir’s defensive lines. Lalrindika’s efforts to create openings for his team resulted in several promising moments, including opportunities for Nikum Gyamar and Mario Barco. However, Real Kashmir’s disciplined defending thwarted Kashi’s attempts to capitalize on these chances, with goalkeeper Muheet Shabir proving decisive in denying Lalrindika a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
Real Kashmir’s Resilience: Absorbing Pressure and Counterattacks
Real Kashmir FC adopted a strategy of absorbing pressure from Kashi in the first half, opting to stay compact defensively and look for opportunities to exploit spaces on the counterattack. Despite limited possession, Real Kashmir remained organized at the back, frustrating Kashi’s attempts to break through their defensive lines. The introduction of Kisekka as a substitute injected fresh energy into Real Kashmir’s attack, ultimately leading to the crucial equalizer in added time.
Barco’s Brilliance: Inter Kashi Takes the Lead
Kashi’s breakthrough came in the 76th minute when Mario Barco capitalized on a well-delivered cross from Sumeet Passi to head home a sublime goal. Barco’s decisive run and clinical finish gave Kashi the lead, momentarily putting them in control of the match. However, their joy was short-lived as Real Kashmir mounted a spirited comeback in the dying minutes of the game.
Conclusion: A Hard-Fought Battle Ends in Stalemate
The clash between Real Kashmir FC and Kashi epitomized the competitive nature of the I-League, with both teams showcasing determination and resilience throughout the match. Despite falling behind early in the second half, Real Kashmir demonstrated character and fighting spirit to snatch a valuable point in the closing stages. Inter Kashi, on the other hand, will rue missed opportunities to secure victory and climb higher in the league standings. As the season progresses, both teams will look to build on this result and continue their pursuit of success in the I-League.
Inter Kashi Starting XI
Arindam Bhattacharya (GK) (C), S Mandi, K Beyong, D Devrani, J Perez, S Passi, J Lamela, F Gomez, E Lalrindika, G Nikum, M Barco
Real Kashmir FC Starting XI
Muheet (GK), M.Hammad (C), Hyder, M.Inam, Henry, Shaheen, Issah, Carlos Lomba, Jeremy.B, Adnan, Vaz
